WASHINGTON, D.C. — A man was shot early Thursday morning in the Palisades, an upscale neighborhood in northwest Washington, D.C., sparking a police search for three juvenile suspects who fled in a gray sedan.
Early-Morning Shooting
The gunfire broke out shortly after 3 a.m. in the 3000 block of Chain Bridge Road NW, a tree-lined stretch near the Potomac River known for its quiet streets and multi-million-dollar homes.
First responders quickly arrived and transported the victim to a local trauma center. Authorities said his injuries are considered non-life-threatening. Police have not released the man’s identity.
Juvenile Suspects on the Run
According to preliminary reports, investigators believe three juveniles were involved in the incident. The trio fled the scene in a gray vehicle immediately after the shooting.
Detectives have not yet determined a motive, nor have they confirmed whether the suspects and the victim were acquainted.
Rare Violence in Affluent Area
The Palisades neighborhood is rarely the site of violent crime, making the incident especially unsettling for residents. The community is well known for its quiet character, proximity to scenic parkland, and strong sense of security.
“This is a very peaceful area,” one resident said. “Hearing about a shooting just a block away is shocking.”
Police Investigation Underway
Police units canvassed the area through the night and into the morning hours. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from nearby homes and businesses in hopes of identifying the suspects’ car and tracking their movements.
As of Thursday morning, no arrests had been made. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact the Metropolitan Police Department.
Growing Concern Over Youth Violence
The shooting is the latest in a string of incidents across the city involving armed juveniles and getaway vehicles. Law enforcement officials say the trend reflects a troubling rise in youth-involved violence, particularly in carjackings and armed robberies.
Community leaders have voiced concerns about the safety of residents as well as the need for interventions aimed at keeping young people away from crime.
“This is not just about policing,” one local advocate noted. “It’s about addressing why so many kids are picking up guns and getting involved in violent acts.”
What’s Next
The investigation remains active as police continue their search for the suspects. Meanwhile, residents in the Palisades say they hope the incident remains an anomaly in an area where such violence is almost unheard of.
For now, the shooting stands as a reminder that even the city’s most affluent neighborhoods are not immune to the rising tide of youth crime gripping Washington.
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